Next story:

Sponsor a stall to help neglected horses

SOUTH WINDHAM, Maine — The Maine State Society for the Protection of Animals, the largest equine rescue and rehabilitation center in New England, announced the official launch of its new “Support a Stall” program on Saturday at its Holiday Open House.

Under the initiative, individuals and organizations can sponsor a stall for $3,000 to help provide one horse with a year of feed, medical attention, and dental and hoof care. In addition, the donation ensures that the horse receives the exercise and socialization it needs.

MSSPA cares for nearly 100 abused or neglected horses that have been seized by law enforcement officials or placed by court order on its 124-acre farm in South Windham. Established to care for horses pulling Portland’s streetcars in 1872, the organization is now staffed around the clock and provides animals with 24/7 access to veterinary care. The 501(c)(3) does not receive federal, state or local funding and relies heavily on donor contributions to continue operations.

“The Support a Stall program is a first in the history of our organization and because of the economic downturn and ever-present need to provide for our equine friends, we felt it was necessary to reach out to the community in this way,” said Marilyn Goodreau, president of the Maine State Society for the Protection of Animals. “We’re confident that through a genuine love of animals, that individuals and organizations in Maine and throughout the United States will help make the ‘Support a Stall’ program a success and help us continue the important work of saving horses’ lives.”

“Support a Stall” donors will receive special recognition on the Animal Lovers’ Marquee outside of the big barn at the farm. Donors are also encouraged to visit the facility, which is open year-round, to see the benefits of their support. To support a stall or to learn more about MSSPA, visit www.msspa.org.

“Sponsoring a stall in the MSSPA barn provides direct help to abused or neglected horses and ensures that the organization will be there as long as animals remain in need,” said Helen Holman, horse owner and first “Support a Stall” program donor. “It’s an honor to become part of such an amazing team of people who — through compassion, love and unwavering dedication — transform the lives of horses.”

In addition to providing rescue, rehabilitation, adoption and sanctuary services to large animals, the organization also cares for dogs, cats and goats on its farm. MSSPA also educates students through programming at the farm and at schools or clubs by invitation.